Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Campground, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is the crown jewel of Big Sur’s coastline — famous for McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that drops directly onto a secluded cove. The park’s Environmental Campground consists of just two walk-in sites perched above the Pacific Ocean. It’s minimal, quiet, and breathtakingly scenic — a once-in-a-lifetime spot for campers who manage to score a reservation.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Unreal.” Campers describe the experience as camping *in a postcard*. The sound of waves crashing below, redwoods behind you, and McWay Falls just a short walk away make this an unforgettable stay.
Highlights
- View: direct ocean overlook with endless horizon views.
- Exclusivity: only two campsites in the entire park.
- Waterfall walk: short trail to McWay Falls viewpoint.
- Privacy: huge spacing between sites, no road noise.
Frictions to plan around
- Hardest reservation in California: books seconds after release.
- Walk-in only: short trail from parking area; no drive-up access.
- No hookups: primitive sites with no potable water or showers.
- Wind: coastal gusts — secure tents and gear.
Camper Quotes
“Most beautiful campsite I’ve ever seen.”
“You fall asleep to waves and wake up to the sun over the Pacific.”
“Totally worth the struggle to book.”
“Pure Big Sur perfection — redwoods, cliffs, and ocean air.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: 2 environmental (walk-in) sites perched above the ocean.
- Hookups: none; primitive camping only.
- Facilities: pit toilets, picnic tables, fire rings; bring your own water.
- Setting: oceanfront bluffs with nearby redwoods and canyon trails.
- Pets: not permitted in campground or on trails.
Booking & Availability
Reservations: via ReserveCalifornia.com. Released six months in advance and typically booked within seconds. Cancellations are rare, but worth checking daily if you’re flexible.
Tip: Set a ReserveCalifornia account alert and log in before 8 a.m. release time — these two sites are some of the hardest to snag in California.
Best Sites
- Site #1: slightly closer to cliff edge — full ocean panorama.
- Site #2: more sheltered from wind, redwood backdrop.
Both are spectacular. You can’t go wrong — just bring extra water and layers for foggy mornings.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: larger forested campground nearby.
- Limekiln State Park: coastal redwoods and waterfalls 20 minutes south.
- Kirk Creek Campground (Los Padres NF): dramatic ocean-view campsites just up the highway.
Map & Directions
From Monterey, follow Highway 1 south for about 37 miles to the park entrance. The campground parking is on the ocean side, signed for “Environmental Campsites.” Bring printed directions — cell service is limited along Highway 1.
Address: 52801 California State Route 1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Julia Pfeiffer Burns FAQ
Is it drive-in?
No — short walk from the parking area to the two environmental sites.
Are there hookups?
No. This is primitive camping — no water, power, or dump station.
Can I visit McWay Falls from the campground?
Yes! The overlook trail starts nearby and takes just a few minutes on foot.
When’s the best time to visit?
March–May for wildflowers, or September–October for clear coastal sunsets.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, though access and lack of amenities make it better for experienced campers.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
He’s rumored to camp here once a century, but only when the fog clears. 👣🌊
